Widespread riots in Northern cities during the Civil War were largely sparked by the introduction of the draft in 1863 through the Enrollment Act.

Many working-class individuals, particularly in cities like New York, felt the draft was unfair, as wealthier men could pay substitutes to avoid service. This led to resentment and violent protests, with the most notorious being the New York City Draft Riots, where protesters expressed their anger over conscription, racial tensions, and the war itself. The riots resulted in significant destruction, and loss of life, and highlighted deep societal divisions.